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Friday, January 15

Old people at home will get vaccinated, but maybe not their caregivers, state announces
Last week, in a stunning turnabout, Washington state officials said they would vaccinate all people over 70 early this year. The announcement, on Jan. 6, came within days after a coalition of over 200 individuals and organizations representing communities of color asked the state to vaccinate multigenerational households in which older people are cared for at home. Continue reading at Northwest Asian Weekly. (Trang Tu)

Incarcerated Person In Washington Calls For Prisoners To Receive Early Vaccine Consideration
In a recent editorial for The Washington Post, Christopher Blackwell decries what he calls “modest steps” by state officials to reduce prison populations in an effort to slow the spread of the virus. In Washington and other states, officials have ordered prisoners who were serving for non-violent crimes to be released early. Continue reading at KNKX. (LM Otero)

Data privacy, home grows and a push for COVID reopening
Data privacy, a flashpoint of House-Senate conflict the past two sessions, is back on the docket. And Sen. Reuven Carlyle, D-Seattle, is again the driving force behind legislation to strengthen consumer rights regarding control of their personal information. Continue reading at The Everett Herald.

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Associated Press
Trump administration slashes imperiled spotted owls’ habitat
Stocks fall toward weekly loss as economy’s pain deepens
Expanded vaccine rollout in US spawns a new set of problems
Biden unveils $1.9T plan to stem COVID-19 and steady economy
Groups ask court to restore protections for US gray wolves
Court halts Seattle efforts to create heroin injection sites
Heavy rain sends untreated wastewater into Puget Sound

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Thursday in Washington state
Biden releases economic plan with $1,400 stimulus checks, boosted unemployment benefits
As COVID vaccinations readied to move to the next phase, this is what Whatcom can expect
Whatcom’s ‘concerning’ surge continues with 109 cases Wednesday, as Lummi reports death
As vaccine continues to ‘trickle’ in, Whatcom ‘moving at the pace we are based on supply’
Seattle special education amid COVID-19 under investigation
‘Obviously we have to do better.’ Fauci looks ahead to vaccine rollout under Biden
Coronavirus weekly-need-to-know: Air travel, vaccines, loss of taste & more
Can COVID-19 vaccine prevent infecting others? Scientists to search for answer
As COVID vaccinations readied to move to the next phase, this is what Whatcom can expect
Coronavirus updates: State passes 281k cases; vaccinations to be expanded
Stress and depression may weaken your immune response to COVID vaccines, studies show

Capital Press
Expect major changes in immigration policy under Biden, attorney says
Gebbers Farms appeals $2 million fine
Farm Bureau: Washington’s COVID-19 plan ‘has failure written all over it‘

Everett Herald (subscription required)
3 local school districts ask for vaccines for all staff ASAP
Cornfield Report: Data privacy, home grows and a push for COVID reopening (Carlyle)
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
CARES Act grant helps artists be creative — and pay the rent
Editorial: Adults should be allowed to grow cannabis at home

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Kitsap superintendents request quicker vaccine access for educators
Ex-Bremerton police detective who resigned after theft allegations accused of shoplifting
After storm knocks out power, Peninsula Community Health raced to give out COVID-19 vaccines
Washington State Ferries ridership plummeted in 2020. How long will it take to come back?

News Tribune (subscription required)
‘We’re getting sick, and we’re dying.’ Grocery workers seek return of hazard pay
Pierce Transit CEO announces retirement after more than five years at the agency
Tacoma libraries will halt services for 2 weeks due to budget shortfall. Here’s when
Pierce County sees 181 new COVID-19 cases Thursday and multiple deaths
Tacoma kids are headed back to school. Is the district prepared to keep them COVID free?
Editorial: Washington state Republicans show courage, vote to impeach Trump. Are we surprised?
Chinook salmon fishing halted north of Vashon Island to tip of Bainbridge

New York Times
Live Updates: Pelosi Expected to Speak About Impeachment
Biden Outlines $1.9 Trillion Spending Package to Combat Virus and Downturn
Inaugural Security Is Fortified in D.C. as Military and Police Links Are Eyed in Riot
After Barring Trump, Facebook and Twitter Face Scrutiny About Inaction Abroad
F.B.I. Urges Police Chiefs Across U.S. to Be on High Alert for Threats
Federal watchdogs open a far-reaching investigation into failures in the lead-up to the Capitol riot.
Trump Opens Habitat of a Threatened Owl to Timber Harvesting
Survey Finds Majority of Voters Support Initiatives to Fight Climate Change

Northwest Asian Weekly
Old people at home will get vaccinated, but maybe not their caregivers, state announces
WA Congress members react to violence at the U.S. Capitol

Olympian (subscription required)
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Thursday in Washington state
WA National Guard troops headed to DC to provide support at presidential inauguration
Thurston County reports 1 more COVID-19 death, 35 more cases on Thursday
Biden releases economic plan with $1,400 stimulus checks, boosted unemployment benefits
Pledge to boost pandemic-depleted Washington state tax revenues now a main thrust of expanded sports gambling push (Liias)

Peninsula Daily News
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
COVID-19 cases up across Washington state
Vaccine supply limited, Peninsula officers say

Puget Sound Business Journal
Seattle Children’s hires former US attorney general to lead independent investigation
Accelerating US vaccinations ‘easier said than done’, experts say
Cash, breakfasts and firings: An all-out push to vaccinate wary medical workers
Biden to push $1.9T stimulus for pandemic-battered US economy
Employer-based Covid-19 vaccination sites are 3rd priority in DOH strategy
Seattle joins list of nation’s top 10 regional economies, with Amazon and Microsoft leading the charge
Health and tech groups aim to create digital Covid ‘vaccination passport’

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Huge response to a mass COVID-19 vaccination site in Sequim is likely preview of what’s to come
‘A horrible surprise for any business’ — Washington lawmakers weigh bill exempting businesses from taxes on COVID-19 aid (Walen, Frockt)
Nursing professor sues Seattle Pacific University, says he was denied full-time job ‘because he’s not heterosexual’
Celebrate MLK Day in the Seattle area this weekend, plus more activities
Washington state will move to the next phase of coronavirus vaccination in the ‘coming days.’ Here’s what that means.
Foster youth are less connected to school than they were in the spring
From Tacoma to Ballard, light-rail changes, soaring real estate prices bring a cascade of new costs
Use gun laws to protect our communities from violence

Seattle Weekly
King County reports record numbers of drug overdose deaths
Governor Inslee: We are going forward toward a ‘new normal’

Skagit Valley Herald
Residents, staff vaccinated at Sedro-Woolley assisted living facility
Skagit County plans move to next phase of COVID-19 vaccinations
County ends talks about COVID-19 civil penalties
Skagit County Superior Court judges sworn in

South Seattle Emerald
Taxpayers partially on hook for county’s, deputy sheriff’s, and their lawyers’ delay tactics in LE case
New public maritime high school to open in September, applications are open for prospective students

Tri-City Herald
Tri-Cities COVID cases plateauing at higher level than before
Tri-Cities health district anticipates return for middle, high school
Health district says more vaccines, in-person learning on the horizon for Tri-Cities
‘Long time coming.’ Kennewick votes to send middle and high school students to back to class

USA Today
Coronavirus updates: Biden to reveal more about stimulus plan that includes $1,400 checks; Disney ends Annual Passports program
Dem lawmakers speculate that Capitol rioters may have had GOP help

Washington Post
How the rioters who stormed the Capitol came dangerously close to Pence
Post-ABC poll: Overwhelming opposition to Capitol attacks, majority support for preventing Trump from serving again
For those who quit Trump after riot, critics say it’s too little — and four years too late
Opinion: The seditionists made clear what their attack was about: White supremacy
Vaccine reserve was already exhausted when Trump administration vowed to release it, dashing hopes of expanded access

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
When can I get the COVID-19 vaccine? See Washington’s phases and timeline
Washington state’s employment agency paid out fake claims on 10 of its workers
Inslee says proposed capital gains tax would help entire state, aid in pandemic response
Vaccines to stimulus checks: Here’s what’s in Biden’s plan
Washington leaders, politicians promise change after slow vaccine rollout
Black-owned coffee shop in Shoreline targeted with 2nd racist crime in three months

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Alaska Airlines makes safety changes ahead of Wednesday’s inauguration
Paycheck Protection Program set to fully reopen Tuesday
Evidence shows rioters aimed to ‘capture and assassinate’ officials, prosecutors say
Medical Teams International gets freezers ready for COVID-19 vaccine
Police accountability reform may affect labor contracts
SPS being investigated over concerns about special education instruction during pandemic
King County sees sharp rise in fatal overdoses in last 2 weeks
State report: Salmon still near brink of extinction

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
IHME projects nearly 8,500 COVID-19 deaths in Washington by May 1, doctor says
Current events, COVID-19 exacerbate mental health concerns as calls for help spike
Inslee, health officials under fire for slow rollout of COVID-19 vaccine statewide
FBI stands up command post, but no current ‘specific’ threats to Capitol in Olympia
State Supreme Court: Benton Co. sheriff potentially committed felony

KNKX FM
For state’s first Native American justice, a diverse Supreme Court is ‘just the beginning’
Incarcerated Person In Washington Calls For Prisoners To Receive Early Vaccine Consideration

KUOW FM
STATE HEALTH SECRETARY AIMS TO GET MOST WASHINGTONIANS VACCINATED BY FALL CLASSES
What Washington state’s lawmakers said at Wednesday’s impeachment vote
Pandemic blog: Covid-19 updates for Washington state
Retail Spending Dips For 3rd Straight Month As Infections Surge
Why Billions In Food Aid Hasn’t Gotten To Needy Families
Federal probe to examine whether Seattle Schools failed special education students during pandemic
Justice Department Knew 2018 Border Policy Would Separate Families, Didn’t Plan Well
$1,400 Checks And Help For The Jobless: What’s In Biden’s Plan To Rescue The Economy
Biden To Unveil $1.9 Trillion COVID-19 Relief Plan, Including $1,400 Stimulus Checks

NW Public Radio
What It Takes To Open Washington Schools During The Pandemic
$1,400 Checks And Help For The Jobless: What’s In Joe Biden’s Plan To Rescue The Economy
Report Lays Out Bleak Picture For Northwest Salmon ‘Teetering On The Brink Of Extinction’

Q13 TV (Fox)
Change in legal ruling creates stricter rules for Washington sex offenders
‘It’s about time:’ Seattle mom reacts to federal investigation of Seattle Public Schools
Concerned residents ask Tacoma city leaders about plans for new temporary homeless shelter

Web

Crosscut
Former AG Eric Holder to lead investigation of Seattle Children’s
Seattle police union president’s comments could affect contract negotiations

MyNorthwest
Puget Sound region in ‘wait and see pattern’ for snow by end of January
Baby watch begins for gorilla at Woodland Park Zoo
Puget Sound Educational District hit with data breach
Sammamish company says it has no plans to host Parler
‘Hole punch’ clouds spotted Thursday above parts of Western Washington
Washington COVID-19 case rates higher than ever post-holidays
Record spike in fatal overdoses in King County
Court ruling could alter Seattle’s reworked plan for safe injection sites
Seattle council kicks off renewed push to limit SPD’s use of crowd control weapons
Power mostly restored to Puget Sound residents

Seattle P.I.
Seattle ranks among cities where homeowners were most cost-burdened in 2020
Seattle Public Schools superintendent asks Inslee to prioritize educators for coronavirus vaccine

Slog
A Five-Year Effort to Write Environmental Justice into Washington Law Is Nearly Complete—If It Doesn’t Fall Apart Again
The Problems of Racist Policing Compound When Using Credit Scores to Determine Insurance Rates

Thursday, January 14

Washington state will move to the next phase of coronavirus vaccination in the ‘coming days.’ Here’s what that means.
The Washington state Department of Health will move into its next phase of coronavirus vaccination sooner than expected, moving up the timeline to begin inoculating people aged 70 years and older, among others. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Ken Lambert)

Orwall sponsors state bill for 988 lifeline to help prevent suicides
A measure introduced by state Rep. Tina Orwall, D-Des Moines, will help ensure suicide prevention and behavioral health crisis services are accessible to everyone statewide. Continue reading at The Auburn Reporter. (Stock)

Trump impeached again, this time for inciting insurrection. What can happen next?
The U.S. House of Representatives voted Wednesday to impeach President Donald Trump for inciting an insurrection at the Capitol, the first time a U.S. president has been impeached twice. Continue reading at The Olympian. (Drew Angerer)

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Associated Press
Trump impeached after Capitol riot in historic second charge
2 Washington state Republicans support impeaching Trump
Boeing deliveries drop despite 737 Max’s return to flight
COVID-19 cases up in Washington, vaccinations to be expanded
Asian shares mixed after lackluster day on Wall Street
US unemployment claims jump to 965,000 as virus takes toll
In inaugural address, Inslee says Washington state must work toward a ‘new normal’
Inslee: Washington state must work toward a “new normal”

Aberdeen Daily World
Storm causes flooding across Twin Harbors
Local resident gives first-hand account of Capitol Hill event
Op-ed: Where we stand today will be remembered tomorrow
Op-ed: GOP leaders must debunk the Big Lie about rigged election

Auburn Reporter
Orwall sponsors state bill for 988 lifeline to help prevent suicides (Orwall)
Unite! Then lawmakers disagree on in-person session (Jinkins, Liias)

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
‘You already know what to do,’ Lynden mayor urges as test reveals elevated COVID levels
As vaccine continues to ‘trickle’ in, Whatcom ‘moving at the pace we are based on supply’
Health official: Here’s what preventing Whatcom economy from opening amid rising COVID cases
As Whatcom endures post-holiday COVID spike, one region’s infection rate triples in a week
Trump impeached again, this time for inciting insurrection. What can happen next?
With contact tracing resources stretched, state adjusts Whatcom’s COVID case total down 18
Coronavirus updates: State passes 278k cases
Where is the COVID vaccine bottleneck? State looking into reporting delays
Inslee: Washington state must move toward a ‘new normal’
Here’s how long the National Guard will remain at the Capitol Campus
Watch: Gov. Jay Inslee gave Washington state inaugural address Wednesday (Jan. 13)
Army’s COVID-19 vaccine may hold key to beating coronavirus mutations
What happens if you lose your COVID vaccine record card? CDC offers other options

Capital Press
Environmentalists threaten lawsuit over fuel break plan
Spotted owl ‘critical habitat’ cut by 3.5 million acres
Additional mink test positive for COVID-19 at Oregon farm
Farm economy finding its footing, experts say
U.S. blueberry industry groups spar at trade hearing
Washington farm groups anxious as lawmakers convene
Timberland owners face challenges after 2020 fires
Sage grouse review done, but scant time for Trump’s changes
Why is there a lumber shortage in the U.S.?

Columbian
Clark County veterans not answering VA calls about COVID-19 vaccinations
COVID-19 surge pushes Clark County disease activity back into ‘high’ range
In Our View: Rep. Vicki Kraft unfit to serve, should resign

The Daily News
Herrera Beutler and Newhouse join 8 other GOP Congress members in voting to impeach President Trump
State alters COVID-19 vaccine plan in effort to speed up administration

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Cornfield Report: With inaugural address, Inslee embarks on a rare third term (Robinson)
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Washington lawmakers explain why they voted to impeach Trump
Governor Inslee: We are going forward toward a ‘new normal’ (Jinkins)

The Inlander
Why is it taking so long to give out lifesaving vaccines in Washington state?

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Donald Trump impeached for ‘incitement’ of mob attack on US Capitol
11 million gallons of stormwater, sewage flow into Puget Sound from King County plant
Yes, it’s been rainy in Kitsap County. Even by January’s standards
No-contact advisories issued for Dyes Inlet, Port Washington Narrows and Sinclair Inlet after 35,000-gallon sewage spill
‘We just didn’t want him to have to die that way’: Families mourning COVID-19 deaths of those in nursing homes grieve how they passed
Kitsap Humane Society announces transition of executive director Eric Stevens

News Tribune (subscription required)
Pierce County Superior Court jury trials postponed again amid coronavirus pandemic
Norpoint will show if city has gumption to force fair distribution of homeless services
More than 400 new COVID-19 cases on Wednesday in Pierce County; deaths also climb
Puyallup embarks on back-to-school plan despite reservations from teachers union
League shuffle happening for South Sound high schools. Here’s what we know
Editorial: Vaccination of Washington state teachers, school employees should be fast-tracked

New York Times
Trump Impeached for Inciting Insurrection
Sharp Rise in Jobless Claims Underscores Pandemic’s Economic Toll: Live Updates
Covid-19 Live Updates: Southwest Surge Helps Drive Record Death Toll in U.S.
Johnson & Johnson Expects Vaccine Results Soon but Lags in Production
F.B.I. Urges Police Chiefs Across U.S. to Be on High Alert for Threats

Olympian (subscription required)
Thurston County adds 53 COVID-19 cases on Wednesday, total to date grows to 5,561
Police shoot man after highway pursuit near Grand Mound
Where is the COVID vaccine bottleneck? State looking into reporting delays
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Wednesday in Washington state
These Washington State Republicans voted to impeach President Donald Trump
Trump impeached again, this time for inciting insurrection. What can happen next?
Thousands without power in Thurston County following windy rainstorm overnight
Here’s how long the National Guard will remain at the Capitol Campus
House to vote on $5,000 fine for lawmakers who refuse to go through security screening
Port of Olympia agrees to $225,000 settlement of lawsuit

Peninsula Daily News
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Wind gusts cause some 6,000 outages on Peninsula
COVID vaccination appointments fill up fast
North Olympic Peninsula vaccination clinics set

Port Townsend Leader
Jefferson Healthcare, Tri-Area Pharmacy to schedule vaccine appointments starting Thursday for people 85 years and older
Lawmakers launch session with calls for cooperation, quick action on COVID-19 | 2021 Legislative Session

Puget Sound Business Journal
State health officials say next Covid-19 vaccine phase could come this week
Expert View: Why taxing wealthy colleges and mimicking the University of Winnipeg make a lot of sense
PPP to reopen to all lenders next week
Durkan proposes limiting fossil fuel use in some new buildings
SBA picks up pace on PPP loan forgiveness. Here’s how many it has processed so far.
Lost passwords lock millionaires out of their bitcoin fortunes
States told to vaccinate everyone 65 and over as deaths surge

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Washington state will move to the next phase of coronavirus vaccination in the ‘coming days.’ Here’s what that means.
‘Disturbing reports’ about Seattle schools spark civil-rights probe by U.S. Department of Education
Delay in vaccinating most Washington K-12 teachers, staff alarms legislators, union (Wellman, Santos
Inslee: Washington state must work toward a ‘new normal’ (Jinkins, Heck)
Nine of Washington’s 10 members of U.S. House voted to impeach

Skagit Valley Herald
Burlington-Edison, La Conner school districts plan to reopen
Skagit County vaccine delivery still lags
Hamilton passes budget, looks to smoother year

South Seattle Emerald
Community clinics hopeful as they begin vaccinating against COVID-19
Strong windstorm knocks out power to 74,000 in and around Seattle, south end especially hard hit
State moves to accelerate vaccination timeline against backdrop of frightening spike in COVID-19 cases
South end public school staff to district: don’t reopen without vaccines
Vigil for Dolal Idd in Tukwila shows solidarity for Somali-Muslim community and demands change
SPD data shows what D.C. Capitol attack proved in primetime: cops don’t represent us or democracy
City of Seattle will roll out mobile vaccination teams in first step of vaccination efforts
Breaking: King County jail system to begin COVID surveillance testing on incarcerated adults

Tri-City Herald
‘Long time coming.’ Kennewick votes to send middle and high school students to back to class
Hanford starts emptying radioactive waste from a leak-prone tank. First in 17 months
20 Tri-Cities places approved to give COVID shots — when more vaccine arrives
Republican Rep. Dan Newhouse votes to impeach Trump

USA Today
Not just the House: From golf pros to the Central Park Carousel, President Donald Trump is rebuffed
Armed ‘militias’ are illegal. Will authorities finally crack down if they show up at state capitals next week?
‘It’s what we feared:’ Hospitals from Georgia to California face surging COVID-19 cases, staff shortages and rising deaths
‘This is a problem … across the country’: Health officials hope to speed up COVID-19 vaccine administration at nursing homes

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Columbia County health officials urge residents at town hall to voice concerns over regional health designation, vaccination progress
Wind takes Walla Walla Valley for a ride
Kennewick man Dexter T. Williams pleads guilty to lesser charges in Walla Walla County drugs, resisting arrest case
Walla Walla Public Schools, teachers union, agree to phase students back to the classroom this month

Washington Post
House hands Trump a second impeachment, this time with GOP support
QAnon reshaped Trump’s party and radicalized believers. The Capitol siege may just be the start.
Nation’s governors prepare for worst, warn of long-term dangers to their capitols
New unemployment claims jump to nearly 1 million, the highest level since August
2020 rivals hottest year on record, pushing Earth closer to a critical climate threshold
Opinion: Want unity? Impeaching Trump was the first step.

Whidbey News-Times
Editorial: Oak Harbor pro-Trump rally during Capitol siege poorly timed

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
What does President Trump’s impeachment mean this time? A Seattle political scientist explains
Washington teachers push for higher vaccine priority as districts plan return to classrooms
Washington health officials announce accelerated plan for next phase of COVID-19 vaccine after rocky start
Power outage spurs rush to use COVID-19 vaccines at Tulalip reservation
Nine Washington Congressional representatives vote to impeach Trump

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Trump to face Senate trial after second impeachment
WA to start phase 1B COVID-19 vaccinations in ‘coming days’
FAA adopts stricter unruly passenger policy
Brand-new, more infectious COVID-19 variant discovered in U.S.
Inslee takes oath, faces challenges and criticism
Two House Republicans from Washington vote to impeach Trump
Power outages at wastewater treatment plant, pump stations cause overflow into Puget Sound, Lake Washington

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Millions of gallons of raw sewage spill into Puget Sound during storm
Washington state reports 49 new COVID-19 deaths as cases continue increasing
Court ruling blocks Seattle’s efforts to create supervised heroin injection sites
9 out of Washington state’s 10 U.S. Representatives vote to impeach President Trump

KNKX FM
2 Washington state Republicans support impeaching Trump
Why is Washington’s distribution of COVID vaccine so slow?
Washington Public Lands Head Seeks Big Funding Bill To Combat Increasingly Bigger Fire Seasons
Settlement agreement says state must protect endangered species from polluted runoff
House Votes To Impeach Trump, But Senate Trial Unlikely Before Biden’s Inauguration
Police and reformers face off over proposal to ban chokeholds, tear gas and military equipment (Johnson, Goodman)

KUOW FM
HOUSE IMPEACHES TRUMP A 2ND TIME, CITING INSURRECTION AT U.S. CAPITOL
What Washington state’s lawmakers said at Wednesday’s impeachment vote
Pandemic blog: Covid-19 updates for Washington state
Biden Adds Homeland Security, Cyber Heft to White House Team
The House Has Impeached Trump Again. Here’s How House Members Voted
U.K. Variant Could Drive A New Surge In The U.S., Experts Warn
State Capitols Tighten Security Amid Threat Of Armed Protests Ahead Of Inauguration

NW Public Radio
Idaho K-12 Teachers And School Staff Cleared To Get COVID-19 Vaccine

Q13 TV (Fox)
Washington ranks in bottom half of states for vaccine doses administered
COVID-19 cases up in Washington, vaccinations to be expanded

Web

Crosscut
Disproportionately hit by COVID-19, WA Latinos brace for vaccine
Los latinos de Washington, desproporcionadamente afectados por el COVID-19, se preparan para la vacuna

My Edmonds News
My Edmonds News Daily Legislative Report: Jan. 13, 2021 (Hunt)

MyNorthwest
Power mostly restored to Puget Sound residents as weather conditions calm
9 of 10 US House members from Washington voted to impeach Trump
Power outage causes 11 million gallons of stormwater, sewage to spill into Puget Sound
Washington Education Association asks to prioritize teachers for COVID vaccine
Seattle man among first indicted for role in siege of US Capitol building
Pair of Washington GOP lawmakers vote to impeach President Trump
Gov. Inslee delivers inaugural address, statewide officials sworn in

Seattle P.I.
Washington preparing to start Phase 1B of coronavirus vaccine rollout as cases tick up once again
Durkan proposes legislation to update Seattle’s energy code and ban gas heat in new buildings

Slog
Washington Rep Cathy McMorris Rodgers, Who Is the Worst, Just Voted to Protect Donald Trump
Inslee Makes His Third Inauguration Speech
Are Power Outages the New Snow Days?
WA Senate Republicans Might Try Rare Procedural Tactic to Force a Vote on Reopening

Wednesday, January 13

Washington lawmakers’ push to reform policing begins with hearing on changes to tactics
Members of the public weighed in Tuesday on a bill that would restrict and standardize tactics police officers are allowed to use across Washington state, including banning chokeholds and preventing law enforcement agencies from buying or using tear gas. Continue reading at The Olympian. (TVW)

$126 million wildfire prevention bill unveiled in Olympia
Commissioner of Public Land Hilary Franz is asking state legislators to pass a $126 million biennium bill to prevent wildfires in Washington state. “2020 was a catastrophic year as we know; we saw more than 800,000 acres burn,” said Franz. “We tragically lost a small boy’s life and the town of Malden was completely leveled in a few hours.” Continue reading at KOMO News. (Eric Schultheiss)

Lawmakers urge Inslee to prioritize all school staff for COVID-19 vaccine
Republican and Democratic leaders of education committees in the Washington Legislature are urging Gov. Jay Inslee and the state Department of Health to change state vaccination guidance so that all school employees are prioritized to receive a coronavirus vaccine in February, instead of putting school employees over age 50 ahead of other school staff. Continue reading at KNKX. (Sen. Brad Hawkins)

Print

Associated Press
Gov. extends Capitol security efforts through Inauguration
Atmospheric river brings record rain, flooding, landslides
Lands chief again proposes dedicated funds to fight wildfire (Springer)
US will require all arriving passengers to get COVID-19 test
Pandemic’s toll shows up on students’ college applications
Trump appointees pressure Census for report on undocumented
Asian stocks mixed after Wall St rebounds from uncertainty
The Latest: House urges Pence to remove Trump from power
Gov. Inslee extends Capitol security efforts through Inauguration

Aberdeen Daily World
Coastal Harvest acquires new mobile food bank
Board of Health to consider discontinuation of needle exchange program Thursday
Vehicle licensing at Courthouse temporarily unavailable due to staffing issues
Commentary: The unprotected Capitol was an inside job
Letter: “Saddened and sickened” by commissioners’ comments
Letter: Commissioners misplace their allegiance
Letter: We can still come together

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Washington lawmakers’ push to reform policing begins with hearing on changes to tactics (Entenman, Johnson, Lovick, Goodman)
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Tuesday in Washington state
Coronavirus updates: Washington state passes 275K total cases, nearing 3,700 deaths
Who’s been hit hardest during Whatcom’s record-setting post-holiday COVID surge?
New forecast shows Nooksack cresting higher than previously thought. Here’s what to expect
U.S. and Canada announce COVID-19 border closure extended until at least Feb. 21
Whatcom’s record-breaking pace continues with 239 new COVID cases Monday, state reports
Families affected by police violence call for reform
Firefighters will distribute COVID vaccine to adult family homes, Washington mayor says
COVID may eventually evolve into a seasonal illness — like common colds, study predicts
Does body size affect how well a COVID vaccine works? Experts weigh in
People flying into US will soon have to provide negative COVID result, CDC says
Coronavirus updates: Washington state passes 275K total cases, nearing 3,700 deaths
US COVID-19 deaths hit another one-day high at over 4,300
Pence says he won’t invoke 25th Amendment to remove Trump. Read his letter to Pelosi
Hundreds of gray whales are dying in ‘unusual’ event not seen in decades, experts say

The Daily News
Herrera Beutler announces she will vote to impeach President Trump
NWIW says $2.3 billion construction project will need 1,434 workers
Cowlitz commissioners say they have no role in state mandates
Southwest region meeting half of new state COVID-19 benchmarks

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Drive-thru vaccination clinics open in Everett and Lynnwood
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Boeing deliveries drop despite 737 Max’s return to flight
Saunders: ‘Victory’ for MAGA crowd would lead to civil war
WaPo Comment: The terror threat from within we hadn’t planned for
Bloomberg Comment: For time being, Democrats are the pro-business party
Editorial: ‘This is your captain speaking: Settle down!’

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Shipyard will see a new homeported carrier and submarines in its dry docks in 2021
Sick and dead finches reported in Kitsap County and across Washington state
Kitsap Rifle and Revolver Club ordered to pay back state grant money
New Seabeck bridge opens to vehicle and salmon traffic
Some Washington state lawmakers come to the capitol armed with guns (Jinkins, Hobbs)

News Tribune (subscription required)
Windstorm leaves thousands without power after blowing through Puget Sound area
Contractor sues small Pierce County town over delayed trail improvements
Pierce County COVID-19 case numbers for Tuesday ‘likely an undercount’ with data delay
Racist stickers plastered at Tacoma school, park investigated as hate crime
New Pierce County Council majority to prioritize housing, early childhood development
WA Sen. Patty Murray wants Trump out now and punishment for his senate enablers
Pence rejects call to remove Trump from power through 25th Amendment
Editorial: Olympia fence isn’t Berlin Wall, but closing state Capitol sadly necessary – for now

New York Times
Live Updates: Calling the House a ‘Crime Scene,’ Lawmakers Move Toward Impeaching Trump
Manhunt Intensifies as Authorities Warn Some Rioters May Face Sedition Charges
Covid-19 Live Updates: Distracted by D.C. Political Crisis, U.S. Sets Daily Record for Virus Deaths
Tribal Elders Are Dying From the Pandemic, Causing a Cultural Crisis for American Indians
House Debates New Article of Impeachment for Trump
Covid-19 Took a Bite From U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions in 2020

Olympian (subscription required)
Washington lawmakers’ push to reform policing begins with hearing on changes to tactics (Entenman, Johnson, Lovick, Goodman)
More than 300,000 without power in region following windy rainstorm overnight
Olympia City Council approves interim police guild contract, but hints at future changes
Thurston County reports 52 new COVID-19 cases Tuesday
Can climbing be done safely during COVID? WA to find out with reopening of indoor gyms
Ferry owner says he plans to move Olympia-based vessel in the next 30 days
Flood watch in effect as Tacoma Power increases flow on Nisqually River
‘I thought I was going to die.’ AOC describes harrowing experience during Capitol riot

Peninsula Daily News
Jefferson Healthcare breach possibly affects 2,550 people
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance

Puget Sound Business Journal
Starbucks commits $100M to create community resilience fund
Seattle to send vaccination teams to adult family homes
Most PPP lenders in the dark on when they can process loans. But it could be soon.

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Wild weather with 70 mph winds whips Seattle and Western Washington, with road closures and power outages
Washington state ferry ridership dropped to historic lows last year
Seattle man who served in Washington National Guard is among first indicted in attack on U.S. Capitol
Washington state caught by surprise as U.S. makes abrupt shift on coronavirus vaccines
Washington state lawmakers hear testimony on bill to ban chokeholds, other police tactics (Johnson)

Seattle Weekly
What could Biden’s nuclear policy look like?

Skagit Valley Herald
Weather overnight causes damage, power outages, some school closures
County Republican Party shares right-wing theories of Capitol violence
State’s latest reopening plan brings relief, frustration for businesses

Tri-City Herald
“A long 10 months.” Richland 6th graders to return to classrooms in 2 weeks
Government prayer: Franklin commissioner wants to start meetings a new way
Tri-Cities area COVID cases climb above 22,000. New case rates are high
Tri-Cities healthcare professional discusses COVID vaccines
Benton officials want Inslee to cede COVID authority to counties

USA Today
House passes measure calling on Pence to invoke 25th Amendment and remove Trump from office
Hurting long before COVID-19, failing companies took stimulus money then closed anyway
Coronavirus updates: US tops 4K daily deaths for second time, pushing total to 380K; Texas joins California as only states with 2M cases

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
College Place youngsters return to the classroom; middle, high schoolers to follow in the coming weeks
Whitman College loans hospital super-cold freezer to store Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine
Walla Walla Public Schools, teachers union, agree to phase students back to the classroom this month
Walla Walla County judge sets bail for Craig H. Ramsey, accused of holding two at gunpoint
Bail set at $750,000 for Stephen A. Taylor, accused in Walla Walla double shooting
Walla Walla area law enforcement use K-9 to locate wanted man near Waitsburg
Craig Harmen Ramsey of Walla Walla arrested after allegedly pointing shotgun at two people

Washington Post
House poised to impeach Trump for ‘incitement of insurrection’
Secret Service launches massive security operation to protect Biden inauguration
Several senior Republicans join impeachment push
Biden team briefs Congress on emerging stimulus plan, aims for bipartisan deal
Refunds and stimulus payments are still piled up at the IRS, and this year may be just as bad, new report says

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Ban on chokeholds, tear gas among the police reforms debated by Washington lawmakers (Johnson)
Windstorm knocks out power to over 500,000 around Puget Sound
WATCH LIVE: House begins proceedings on 2nd Trump impeachment after Capitol siege
Controversial social media site Parler moves to Sammamish-based web domain
Seattle Fire plans house calls to vaccinate long-term care residents and staff
Sen. Murray of Washington takes hard-line stance on impeachment of Trump following Capitol siege
2020 had the highest number of Seattle homicides in 26 years

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Chaos at the Capitol: House slated to hold Trump impeachment vote today
Calls grow to crack down on unruly airline passengers
Seattle Fire to begin administering COVID-19 vaccines to adult family homes
Racist stickers found at elementary school in Tacoma
Youth sports leaders cry foul over encampment at Miller Playfield
Ferry ridership plunges to lowest level since 1975
Paycheck Protection Program accepts new applications
US-Canada border closure extended to Feb. 21

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
WSP investigating multiple threats made against Washington’s State Capitol
Over 500,000 without power as windstorm slams rain-soaked region
Seattle gets green light to distribute COVID-19 vaccine, but it will start small
Amazon seeks to keep conservative app Parler offline
Some restaurants push for Phase 2, indoor dining at 25 percent capacity, others hesitate
$126 million wildfire prevention bill unveiled in Olympia

KNKX FM
Lawmakers urge Inslee to prioritize all school staff for COVID-19 vaccine (Wellman, Santos)
Police and reformers face off over proposal to ban chokeholds, tear gas and military equipment (Johnson, Goodman)
‘Atmospheric river’ brings threat of floods, landslides in Washington
3rd Member Of Congress Tests Positive For Coronavirus, Blames Capitol Attack Lockdown
House Approves 25th Amendment Resolution Against Trump, Pence Says He Won’t Invoke

KUOW FM
POLICE AND REFORMERS FACE OFF OVER PROPOSAL TO BAN CHOKEHOLDS, TEAR GAS AND MILITARY EQUIPMENT (Johnson)
Time for GOP lawmakers to ‘step up’ no matter the personal cost, says this Republican
Pandemic blog: Covid-19 updates for Washington state
Census Bureau Stops Work On Trump’s Request For Unauthorized Immigrant Count
Seattle Covid vaccine study participants now finding out if they got the real deal
Should The Government Pay People To Get Vaccinated? Some Economists Think So
Trump’s Census Director Is Trying To Rush Out Data On Noncitizens, Watchdog Says
Joint Chiefs Remind U.S. Forces That They Defend The Constitution
Urging Lawmakers To Act, Rep. Torres Recalls ‘Running For My Life’ During Riot
Justice Department Warns It’s Coming For Those Involved In Capitol Violence
Trump Administration Changes Course to Speed Up COVID-19 Vaccine Rollout

NW Public Radio
Washington Lands Agency Seeks Big Funding Bill To Combat Increasingly Bigger Fire Seasons
(Springer)
Police, Reformers Face Off Over Proposal To Ban Chokeholds And Military Equipment In Washington (Johnson)
Roots Of U.S. Capitol Insurrectionists Run Through The West And Northwest

Q13 TV (Fox)
Washington windstorm knocks out power to hundreds of thousands overnight
Blocked, flooded roads and landslide risks in Western Washington as rain continues to hit the region
Schools, lawmakers call on governor to vaccinate educators sooner (Santos, Wellman)
Seattle police union head won’t resign after attack remarks
Law enforcement says hate crimes target Shoreline Black-owned business
Lakewood Police investigating after reported death threat against 2020 presidential elector
Locals in Olympia have front row view of the ongoing conflict at the Capitol

Web

Crosscut
What it takes to reopen Washington schools in a pandemic
Some WA legislators come to the Capitol armed with guns (Jinkins, Hobbs)
Opinion: Uber’s price hike signals a bigger, more expensive fight to come

My Edmonds News
Daily State Legislative Report for Jan. 11, 2021 (Jinkins, Sullivan)
Daily Legislative Report for Jan. 12, 2021 (Fitzgibbon, Ortiz-Self)

MyNorthwest
New texts from state DOH aim to speed up COVID-19 exposure notification
Whatcom County COVID transmission rate highest in Washington state
City of Seattle approved to administer COVID vaccine to residents, workers
Parler moves domain name to Sammamish company after Amazon cancels hosting services
Hundreds of thousands across Puget Sound region wake up without power
Seattle had ‘highest number of murders in 26 years’ in 2020
Part of Employment Security’s Benefits Data Dashboard down indefinitely
Seattle Public Schools Superintendent calls for higher vaccine prioritization for educators
Seattle council: Police union ‘would be wise to relieve itself’ of Mike Solan as president

Slog
Two Arrested at Washington Capitol as Lawmakers Vote to Conduct Session Remotely (Billig)
“Two” SPD Officers Photographed at Capitol Insurrection

West Seattle Blog
WEST SEATTLE WINDSTORM: Big power outages; downed trees and wires

Tuesday, January 12

Here’s what you can and can’t do under Inslee’s COVID-19 ‘Healthy Washington’ plan to reopen the state
As the pandemic continues, Gov. Jay Inslee announced a new plan last week called “Healthy Washington — Roadmap to Recovery.” This new plan took effect Jan. 11, and unlike the state’s previous “Safe Start” plan, “Healthy Washington” consists of two phases instead of four, with the state divided into eight regions. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Dean Rutz)

With More Security And 2 Arrests Outside, Washington Lawmakers Approve Rules For Remote Session
The Washington Legislature approved rules Monday that lawmakers to meet remotely because of the pandemic. The in-person votes in Olympia happened under tight security with strict COVID-19 protocols in place. The session opened with a handful of senators allowed on the floor. All socially distanced and wearing masks, they gathered to adopt rules to allow them to legislate remotely going forward. Continue reading at Northwest Public Broadcasting. (Austin Jenkins)

House Democrats move forward with impeachment. What to expect this week
House Democrats introduced an article of impeachment Monday against President Donald Trump after a pro-Trump mob stormed the Capitol last week in a riot that left at least five people dead. The article of impeachment for an “incitement of insurrection” was introduced by Democratic Reps. Ted Liu of California, David Cicilline of Rhode Island and Jamie Raskin of Maryland. Continue reading at The Bellingham Herald. (AP)

Print

Associated Press
“Atmospheric river” brings threat of floods, landslides
Washington state Legislature convenes under tight security
Study: Wildfires produced up to half of pollution in US West
State capitols step up security amid new safety concerns
Stocks drift on Wall Street; Treasury yields keep rallying
Asian stocks gain as markets watch for Biden stimulus plan

Aberdeen Daily World
New-look Coastal Caucus lays out priorities to 2021 legislative session (Van De Wege, Tharinger, Chapman)
City of Aberdeen warns of flood risk
Roberts appointed to state Community Economic Revitalization Board
Op-ed: American exceptionalism is a myth. Our Constitution is the only thing keeping us from authoritarianism

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Tight security but few incidents surround opening of 2021 Legislature (Jinkins, Sullivan, Kuderer)
LIVE UPDATES: Two arrested at the Capitol as the Legislature convenes
WA Sen. Patty Murray wants Trump out now and punishment for his senate enablers
House Democrats move forward with impeachment. What to expect this week
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Monday in Washington state
Whatcom officials watching ‘atmospheric river,’ hoping it’s not a repeat of last year
Concerts, performances could return in the fall ‘if everything goes right,’ Fauci says
Coronavirus updates: Pierce County restaurants receive $84 million in PPP loans; state’s latest count adds nearly 3K cases
Capitol police officer seen taking selfie with rioters is suspended, lawmaker says
Washington Monument shuts down because of ‘credible threats,’ officials say
What could a second impeachment mean for Trump? Here’s why it matters

Columbian
No-barrier COVID-19 testing begins Tuesday at Vancouver site
Remote work debate dominates opening day of Washington legislative session (Stonier, Wylie, Cleveland, Carlyle, Das, Darneille)
Clark County reports 523 new COVID-19 cases, four new deaths since Friday

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Session begins with social distancing, heightened security (Jinkins, Liias)
Jayapal tests positive for COVID following Capitol lockdown
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance

The Inlander
Cheney clinic will test new COVID vaccine on up to 300 Inland Northwest volunteers

Olympian
Tight security but few incidents surround opening of 2021 Legislature (Jinkins, Sullivan)
WA Sen. Patty Murray wants Trump out now and punishment for his senate enablers
LIVE UPDATES: Two arrested at the Capitol as the Legislature convenes
Thurston County adds 23 new COVID-19 cases Monday
Pierce County starts week with nearly 300 new COVID-19 cases

Peninsula Daily News
Some Peninsula fitness centers open again
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Olympic Peninsula vaccination clinics to take appointments

Port Townsend Leader
Second COVID-19 death in Jefferson County
COVID-19 case count rises to 253 in Jefferson County

Puget Sound Business Journal
US emissions rise the least since second world war during pandemic
The most important thing Biden can learn from the Trump economy
ESD hiring new fraud chief in wake of massive losses from benefit fraud

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Here’s what you can and can’t do under Inslee’s COVID-19 ‘Healthy Washington’ plan to reopen the state
Rep. Pramila Jayapal tests positive for coronavirus after Capitol siege but says she ‘will not rest’
Did Trump finally go too far for his Washington state supporters? The answer, it seems, is ‘No’
Seattle man charged after allegedly punching federal officer ‘repeatedly’ in U.S. Capitol siege
How much will homelessness rise? Grim study shows possible ‘impact of doing nothing,’ researchers say
Washington state Legislature convenes as heavy security stands outside; parties split on public access rules (Nobles, Liias, Billig, Jinkins)
Editorial: Legislature’s remote session must be fully transparent

Skagit Valley Herald
Howson named Skagit County District Court judge
Legislators plan for start of 2021 session (Lovelett, Lekanoff, Paul, Ramel)
Sedro-Woolley Police Department upgrades body cameras

South Seattle Emerald
Opinion: A time Of reckoning for Seattle Children’s Hospital
Breaking: FBI agents may have intentionally lied to stoke unrest in summer protests, BLMSKC alleges
SPD confirms two officers at U.S. Capitol riot, CPC seeks documents, and calls increase for SPOG president to resign

Spokesman Review
Washington Legislature opened Monday with new COVID-19 protocols, heavy security around Capitol (Jinkins, Billig)
Protesters gather outside Capitol in Olympia, Washington
Seattle Rep. Pramila Jayapal tests positive for coronavirus after being locked down with lawmakers who wouldn’t wear masks
North Idaho internet provider blocking Facebook, Twitter upon request over censorship claims

Tri-City Herald
Tri-Cities lawmakers want to resume in-person meetings. And push to reopen counties
Top DOE official says feds are showing Tri-Cities they can get Hanford clean
New Tri-Cities COVID cases ease over weekend. Rate of new cases still high

Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber
Opinion: Looking Toward 2021 (Nguyen)

Washington Post
He buried his son a week ago. Now Jamie Raskin is helping lead the impeachment charge.

Yakima Herald Republic
Yakima County commissioners plan legal challenge to latest state COVID reopening plan
South central region far from meeting criteria to move up in new state COVID reopening plan

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Arrests, security, new rules highlight first day of Washington state legislative session (Darneille, Liias, Billig)
Heavy rain could send several Puget Sound rivers to flood stage this week
UW researchers use wastewater to detect COVID-19 and identify neighborhood outbreaks
Rep. Jayapal of Seattle tests positive for COVID-19 after being locked down during US Capitol riot
Gay teacher sues Seattle Pacific University after being denied full-time position
Veterans cheated out of paychecks by Pierce County non-profit will finally be paid back
All regions now in Phase 1 of Inslee’s new ‘Healthy Washington’ plan

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Rep. Pramila Jayapal tests positive for COVID-19
SPD chief: Officers will be fired if investigation shows involvement with violent D.C. protest
Trump to travel to Texas Tuesday as House votes on 25th amendment resolution
Threatening note left at home of Washington elector
FBI warns of plans for nationwide armed protests next week
New legislative session begins under tight security, 2 arrests made
Delivery companies fined $41K for firing pregnant woman who asked to avoid heavy lifting
Seattle man charged with assaulting federal officer during violent protests at U.S. Capitol

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Washington legislature opens 2021 session amid concerns of Capitol security
Washington Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal tests positive for COVID-19
Washington Republicans clamor for fence around State Capitol to be taken down (Liias, Billig)
Scarier than combat: DC officers’ chilling account amid fears of repeat Capitol attack
Oregon House Speaker calls on lawmaker to resign for letting protesters into Capitol

KNKX FM
Washington’s new chief justice vows to ‘follow through’ and eradicate bias in the justice system
Legislative session begins under tight security; 2 arrested
Legislature to meet remotely because of pandemic, but not everyone likes the idea

KUOW FM
Roots Of U.S. Capitol Insurrectionists Run Through American West
How Inauguration Day Is Shaping Up: Beefed Up Security, Limited Public Access
2nd Congresswoman Contracts COVID-19, Blames Capitol Attack Lockdown
Capitol Police Officers Suspended For Actions During Rioters’ Attack On Capitol
Amid Domestic Terror Fears, Acting Homeland Security Chief Chad Wolf to Step Down
U.S. Puts Cuba Back On List Of State Sponsors of Terrorism
Math Problem: What’s The Best Strategy For COVID-19 Vaccination?
Impeachment Resolution Cites Trump’s ‘Incitement’ Of Capitol Insurrection

NW Public Radio
Tracking Down Antibody Treatment Is A Challenge For COVID-19 Patients In Washington
With More Security And 2 Arrests Outside, Washington Lawmakers Approve Rules For Remote Session (Liias, Billig, Nguyen)
Man Charged With Shooting Portland Federal Courthouse Attended Salem ‘Stop The Steal’ Protest
In Opening Legislative Session, Idaho Governor Calls For Reversing Budget Cuts, More Teacher Pay

Q13 TV (Fox)
Washington state Legislature convenes under tight security; 2 arrested (Billig, Nguyen)
Thurston County residents prepare for risk of flooding the next few days
Seattle interim police chief speaks after calling on investigation of two officers seen at U.S. Capitol riots
‘Extremely complicated:’ A look at social media and free speech in light of Capitol chaos

Web

Crosscut
Some WA legislators come to the Capitol armed with guns (Lovick)
Opinion: What 2020 taught us about Washington’s partisan divide
Threats against journalists feel more dangerous in 2021

SLOG
The 2021 Legislative Session Is Getting Off to a Weird Start

Seattle P.I.
Estimated cost of West Seattle-Ballard link extension increases by 50%
‘We have reached a crisis point’: Point Roberts has lost 80% of businesses since start of COVID-19
King County residents struggle to meet basic needs during coronavirus pandemic: survey
Seattle tops list of metro areas where homes sold the fastest since start of pandemic

West Seattle Blog
PANDEMIC: Here’s how vaccinations are going at West Seattle care facilities

Monday, January 11

A preview of the 2021 Washington state legislative session
The Washington State Legislature will begin the 2021 legislative session on Monday, Jan. 11. The legislature operates on a biennium basis: it conducts 105-day full sessions in odd-numbered years (like this year) and 60-day short sessions in even-numbered years. In the odd-numbered years, three budgets are created – the operating budget, the transportation budget and the capital budget; in the even-numbered years, these budgets are modified. Continue reading at The South Seattle Emerald. (MathTeacherGuy)

How Washington residents can weigh in during the mostly remote legislative session
When Washington state’s part-time lawmakers kick off the 105-day 2021 legislative session in a mostly remote environment, it’ll be amid a storm of challenges. Some, such as the ongoing pandemic, are unique to the moment. Others — systemic inequity, overwhelming calls for police accountability, climate change — have long existed. All this, while under a shadow cast by recent events that pose unprecedented security risks. Continue reading at The Bellingham Herald. (Tony Overman)

Five issues to watch in the Washington Legislature in 2021
With a mostly virtual session due to COVID-19 protocols, increased safety concerns over pro-Trump protests nationwide and a long road toward economic recovery, Washington lawmakers have a lot of work ahead of them when the Legislature convenes on Monday. Continue reading at The Spokesman Review. (Jesse Tinsley)